By Ava McCullough
(January 6, 2026) — On January 2, 2026 the Haddam-Killingworth High School Boys basketball team defeated the defending Division V State Champions Shepaug Valley 71 – 57. With the score close throughout the game and tied in the third, senior co-captain Declan Moriarty led the charge to propel the Cougars to victory.
Moriarty drilled four 3-pointers and led the team with 21 points while grabbing 3 steals and contributing 3 assists. Junior Mason Eighmy had two 3-pointers and 10 points while Junior Noah Marica continued to improve upon his game, securing three rebounds and scoring 17 points. Rounding out the scoring, Senior co-captain Jay Evans with 6, Junior Kody Lehet with 10 and Junior Brody Ferguson with 5. Also contributing to the win, Junior Peyton Esposito, who was strong on defense.
All around the Cougars saw strong play including by Lehet and Marica working hard behind the boards. The Cougars will face their Route 81 rival Morgan Huskies of Clinton on January 6, 2026. JV at 5:30 p.m. and Varsity at 7:00 p.m.. See you on the court.
Photos by Lindsey Lehet
